What is the term for the gravitational force with which an object is attracted to Earth?

Prepare for the Basic Engineering Common Core Test 2. Master key concepts with detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with helpful hints and explanations. Get set for your engineering exam!

The gravitational force with which an object is attracted toward Earth is referred to as weight. Weight is specifically defined as the force exerted by gravity on an object. It is directly proportional to the mass of the object and the acceleration due to gravity, which is approximately 9.81 m/s² on the surface of the Earth. The formula for weight can be expressed as:

Weight = Mass × Gravitational Acceleration

This highlights that weight is not merely the mass of the object itself, but the result of that mass being acted upon by Earth's gravity.

Mass, while related to the concept of weight, is a measure of the amount of matter in an object and is constant regardless of location. Gravity is a broader term that describes the force of attraction between any two masses, including between the Earth and an object. Pressure, on the other hand, relates to the force exerted over a specific area and is not directly related to the force of gravity acting on an object. Therefore, the term that specifically denotes the gravitational force acting on an object on Earth is weight.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy